When do parents begin "Time-Out" on Kids?

I can't seem to remember when I started this with my children...as it's been 15 years since I've had a toddler in my house. Now that I'm a grandparent, I find myself asking, "When do parents begin to instill "Time-Out" on children?"

Is a 16-month old too young? My reply, "No, I don't believe so." I believe that a parent has to begin to instill respect, manners, and values into their children at a young age. You are probably asking at this time, "Why?" My reason is because our children in today's world are learning at a much faster pace. If you pay attention, you will notice that our toddlers learn from the people who are in their lives. They look, listen, and begin to say or act out (mock) other people.

So, we have to be very mindful and careful with and what we say and do around our children. They learn by example.....from us, their parents / grandparents / family.

My granddaughter, Lil A is 16-months old. She is at the stage of touching, pinching, scratching, hitting, & screaming. Even though, as a grandmother, I want to give into her tantrum so that she'll stop crying. I have to stop myself. Just because Lil A is screaming doesn't mean to give into what she wants...this is teaching her "how to malnipulate" into getting what she wants. That's a no-no.

The other day, I went to the dentist and my mouth was numb. I couldn't talk for fear of biting myself. Lil A noticed that I couldn't move my lips. She started slapping my mouth. I said, "Ouch. No." So I thought of popping her little hand. I had to re-think. I decided to sternly tell Lil A, "No! No, hit grandma." I kept leveled-eye contact with her. When she repeated it, her mother said to put her in "time-out". So, I did as her mother instructed. Lil A cried for a bit. I went back after 2 minutes, I kept leveled-eye contact with her and asked her, "Will you stop hitting me?" Lil A replied yes with a nod. Say sorry and give a kiss. And she placed her head on my shoulder and gave me a kiss. She was fine aferwards and played with her toys.

Praise children when they do something positive and good. When they hear you praise them, clap, cheer for them...it builds up their self-esteem / confidence.

So, I do believe that if all parents / adults / baby sitters - take a moment to think before acting; instill positive manners, values, and respect in children at a young age....they will be well-behavioral children.

What do you think?